5/12/99 Hogback Ridge Shelter   Miles Today : 21.5 Miles from Springer : 311.5

Well, another day, more thoughts of quitting. This time it was a physical reason that had me ready to pack it in. Around 3 miles from the shelter I turned my ankle, badly. Anyone remember the last time I turned my ankle hiking? Almost that bad, so this still could be the end of me, just not today.

A little trail magic helped me through the day. First, I ended up hiking with an abandoned dog from last night which greatly helped my attitude. When I got to the next shelter I bumped into Brook and Matt, who are going to try to adopt the dog. I then limped on, heading to the next shelter for a little lunch / in for the night. When I got there at 2:15, there were already 2 people there for the night! As I ate and talked to them, my ankle stiffened and it started to rain. Oh well, I had Flint Mountain Shelter on the schedule anyway. Well, just before I had unpacked, the woman from last night showed up. So on with an ace bandage and the boots, down the hatch with the Motrin and on I pushed.

The rain let up but nothing really dried so footing was a constant problem. I picked up a second hiking stick to help balance the weight, which seemed to work. On the way, I passed Brook and Matt ( who had passed me at the shelter ) and Little D, who had taken an hour and a half detour on a wrong turn today!

Just another day of lessons out here on the AT. Today's Lesson: While life is simple out here, the simple things can really screw you up. For example, a sprained ankle is usually just a minor annoyance. Out here, it is a major problem. I am here at the shelter tonight with Chooch, Little D, Moonshine and Pigpen. Looks to be a cold but dry night. I would write more, but I am so exausted that I really need to go to bed. The sun just set and we can already hear the mice. It should be an interesting night and ( dare I say it? ) I am optimistic about tomorrow.

-Chomp

< Previous Entry | Next Entry >